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A Resolution authorizing expenditures in the amount of $136,895.21 from Federal Forfeited Asset Fund (F.A.F.) monies for the acquisition of additional law enforcement equipment; the specialized vehicle equipment for utilization by the Coral Gables Police Department. (Deferred from the August 26, 2014 Meeting)
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The Coral Gables Police Department participates with federal law enforcement agencies of the United States Departments of Justice, Treasury and/or Homeland Security in joint law enforcement investigations. The Coral Gables Police Department's participation in those joint federal - local investigations produces federally seized funds. At the discretion of the United States Attorney General under United States Statute: 18 U.S.C. Section 981 (e)(2), and 21 U.S.C. Section 881 (e)(1)(A) and (e)(3)(b), the Coral Gables Police Department may lawfully receive equitable shares of the federally seized funds at the conclusion of the legal proceedings.
The "Guide to Equitable Sharing for State and Local Law Enforcement Agencies" by the United States Department of Justice provides that the equitably shared forfeited asset funds resulting from the participation of a local agency in investigations with Federal law enforcement agencies may be utilized by the participating local agency to acquire law enforcement equipment for use by law enforcement personnel that supports law enforcement activities.
The Coral Gables Police Department has identified items of new equipment to be purchased for the specialized vehicles that were acquired this year. These vehicles are in need of electronic upgrades in order to maximize their benefit to the City in both tactical situations and rescue operations.
The Forfeited Asset Fund Committee met on August 5, 2014 and approved this expenditure.